Headache Hack: 8 Simple Tricks For Rapid Relief.

 

Get relief from your headaches

Headache Hack: 8 Simple Tricks For Rapid Relief.

Headaches have become a common occurrence for many in today’s busy world. Sometimes they are the result of medical conditions, but more often they are the result of stress, dehydration, working late at night or overwork in your spin class.

Although there are plenty of treatments to reduce headaches, including over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen or prescription headache medications, they do not always eliminate the symptoms.

And it can be irritating, but the solution should not be taken in excess of the recommended dose. In fact, many simple (and super simple) lifestyle habits can help ease your headache pain until you reach the pill.

1. Massage Therapy

Yes, massages may seem luxurious, but they are also very therapeutic. Sometimes headaches are caused by tension in the upper body due to intense physical exercise or muscle tension.

Massage therapy reduces chronic pain as well as muscle tension that causes headaches.

Take the time to research the types of massage (Swedish, Deep Tissue, Shiatsu, etc.) and get a reliable referral to a therapist near you who can effectively address your specific pain points.

2. Hot / Cold application

Muscle tension headaches, hot and / or cold compresses can be relieved. For the cooler part, place the ice in a plastic bag covered with a thin cloth without damaging your skin. Place an ice pack on your forehead and / or cheeks, mainly where there is a great source of pain.

Avoid placing cold pack applications for more than 10 minutes at a time.

For the hot part, you can buy heat packs at most drug stores or make your own using raw rice. Take a small pillow or piece of cloth and fill it with two-thirds raw rice. Stitch or tie the open ends together.

When needed, microwave the rice for a minute. Apply on the back of your neck or forehead for warm relief.

3. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the placement of fine, sharp needles in vital areas of the body as a means of promoting energy flow. It has been found that according to the National Institutes of Health, it stimulates the body's natural pain-reducing compounds and reduces the frequency and severity of headaches.

4. Breathing exercises

Yes, breathe. You know, you're already doing that all the time! It may seem silly, but tension-related headaches can sometimes be relieved with simple breathing exercises that help focus your brain and relax your muscles.

Start by finding a quiet place in your home, office or other place with a comfortable chair that will not distract you. Next, inhale slowly, rhythmically, inhale for five seconds, and then exhale for five seconds. When you relax, your muscle strength decreases.

You can also try a progressive relaxation technique by focusing on every major muscle group in your body. Start with your toes and go up your path.

5. Hydration

Dehydration can contribute to headaches, but it can be easily prevented. Holding a good vintage glass of water can help as a beverage like electrolyte-rich pedalite, gatorode or powerrade.

Just as there are drinks that reduce headaches, there are also those that stimulate them.

Drinking too much coffee or soft drinks that are high in caffeine can cause headaches. So if you usually start your day with a Starbucks quad latte, you may want to trade it for a tone-down mix of half caffeine and half decaffeine.

Alcohol and especially red wine can also cause headaches and dehydration.

6. Sleep

We hear a lot about the health problems caused by lack of sleep, and not getting the minimum amount of sleep at night can lead to chronic headaches. But knowing that you need more sleep and actually getting it are two different things.

There are many ways to improve your sleep volume and quality, including:

Stick to a sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at normal times. Whether you fell asleep 15 minutes earlier or fell asleep 15 minutes later, it may be a step in the right direction.

Avoid stimulants a few hours before bedtime. Stimulants such as alcohol, sugar, nicotine and caffeine can keep you awake and keep you awake when you go to the bathroom at night. Give your body time before your head really touches the pillow.

Choose a relaxing activity before bedtime. Turn off the television or computer and have a good book or hot shower. It may seem old-fashioned, but a little rest goes a long way!

7. Receive a ‘headache diet’

While some foods are tasty, they can also contribute to headaches. Try to keep a "headache diary" about the foods and drinks you eat on a daily basis or especially when you have a headache.

If you notice a specific trigger, avoid it for a while and see if the headache subsides. Potential problem diets:

Caffeinated foods and beverages. Examples of chocolate, coffee, cola and tea.

Foods containing monosodium glutamate. MSG is used as a preservative and is traditionally used in some Asian dishes. It is also found in foods such as instant ramen noodles.

Foods high in nitrates. Very common meats such as hot dogs, lunch meats, sausages and pepperoni can cause headaches.

Foods containing tyramine. Tyramine is a compound formed by the breakdown of the amino acid tyrosine, and is found in foods such as pizza and aged cheese.

8. Drink soothing tea

The warmth and comfort of a steaming cup of herbal tea is a great way to relax at night. The same relieving properties have pain-reducing effects. Since herbs can interact with medical conditions and medicines, it is important to consult a doctor before drinking this tea.